### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **streblóō**, represented by `{{G4761}}`, describes the act of perverting or distorting something. Its base definition is to wrench or torture, but it is used figuratively in scripture to mean to **wrest** or pervert. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting its specific and serious application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G4761}}` is in [[2 Peter 3:16]]. Here, the text refers to certain things in Paul's epistles that are **hard to be understood** `{{G1425}}`. It warns that those who are **unlearned** `{{G261}}` and **unstable** `{{G793}}` **wrest** these writings, just as they do with the other **scriptures** `{{G1124}}`. This act of twisting or perverting the scriptures is shown to lead directly to their own destruction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of `{{G4761}}`:
* `{{G1425}}` **dysnóētos** (difficult of perception:--hard to be understood): This describes the nature of the writings that are being perverted. They are not simple, making them a target for distortion [[2 Peter 3:16]].
* `{{G261}}` **amathḗs** (ignorant:--unlearned): This identifies one of the characteristics of those who engage in wresting the scriptures [[2 Peter 3:16]].
* `{{G793}}` **astḗriktos** (unfixed, i.e. (figuratively) vacillating:--unstable): This describes the unsteady character of those who pervert scripture. They are also referred to as "unstable souls" [[2 Peter 2:14]].
* `{{G1124}}` **graphḗ** (a document, i.e. holy Writ (or its contents or a statement in it):--scripture): This is the object being wrested. Scripture is presented as divinely inspired and profitable for teaching [[2 Timothy 3:16]] and a source of hope [[Romans 15:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4761}}` is centered on the proper handling of God's word.
* **Willful Perversion:** The term **wrest** implies a deliberate and violent distortion, not a simple misunderstanding. It is an act of torturing the meaning of scripture to fit a different purpose.
* **A Warning of Consequence:** The use of `{{G4761}}` is directly linked to a dire outcome: "their own destruction" [[2 Peter 3:16]]. This highlights the severe spiritual danger of misrepresenting holy Writ.
* **Character and Interpretation:** The passage connects the act of wresting scripture to a specific character flaw—being **unlearned** `{{G261}}` and **unstable** `{{G793}}`. It suggests that the mishandling of scripture is a symptom of a deeper spiritual issue.
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{G4761}}` carries immense significance. It provides a stark, figurative warning against the act of twisting or perverting scripture. Its context in [[2 Peter 3:16]] explains that this is done by the unlearned and unstable to their own destruction, underscoring the sacredness of scripture and the severe consequences of its intentional misinterpretation.
TRV